Henry Godinez

Henry Godinez serves as Professor and Department Chair in the Department of Theatre at Northwestern University's School of Communication, while also holding the position of Resident Artistic Associate at Chicago's Goodman Theatre where he directs the Latino Theatre Festival and fosters international collaborations like the Pedro Paramo co-production with Cuba's Teatro Buendia.

Education:

• MFA, Professional Theatre Training Program, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (now located at The University of Delaware)
• BA, Theatre, University of Dallas

His research and professional practice centers on Theatre and Directing with specialized focus on Latino Theatre and Performance Studies, exploring cultural identity through productions that bridge U.S. and Latin American narratives. As co-founder of Teatro Vista, he champions underrepresented voices through initiatives like the Latino Theatre Festival and courses in Latino Theatre.

Scientific Awards:

• 1999 TCG Alan Schneider Directing Award
• 2000 Distinguished Service Award from Lawyers for the Creative Arts
• 2008 Chicago Latino Network’s Latino Professional of the Year
• 2013 Clarence Simon Award for Teaching and Mentoring

Godinez mentors students through courses including Acting I-III and Latino Theatre, recognized for his pedagogical excellence with the Clarence Simon Award. His leadership extends to administrative roles as Department Chair and service on the Illinois Arts Council Executive Committee (appointed by Governor Pat Quinn in 2010), Northwestern University Press Editorial Board, and Albany Park Theatre Project Board of Directors.

He directs the Goodman Theatre's Latino Theatre Festival while maintaining active artistic partnerships with institutions including Teatro Vista (which he co-founded), Portland Center Stage, and Signature Theatre Company. His performance work spans film/TV credits in The Fugitive, Chicago Fire, and Empire, alongside stage performances at Kennedy Center and Chicago Shakespeare.